Malaysia gets its first fighter jet from South Korea
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has received its first FA-50M light combat aircraft from South Korea, marking a significant step in strengthening the country’s air defence capabilities, says Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
The Defence Minister said the aircraft was part of an 18-unit procurement deal signed with Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) in 2023.
He said two FA-50M aircraft were scheduled to arrive yesterday, but only one made it to Malaysia due to a technical issue.
Mohamed Khaled added that the other one was expected to arrive today.
“Both aircraft departed South Korea on Thursday and transited through the Philippines.
“However, due to technical issues, only one arrived today.
“The other aircraft is expected to arrive a day later,” he told reporters after witnessing the arrival of the aircraft at the Labuan Air Base yesterday.
The aircraft made a transit stop in Labuan before continuing its journey to Kuantan Air Base, where it will support the Royal Malaysian Air Force’s (RMAF) operational readiness and training requirements.
Mohamed Khaled said Malaysia was expected to receive six FA-50M aircraft by April next year, with all 18 units scheduled for delivery by March 2028.
He said the new aircraft would replace the air force’s ageing Hawk fleet, which is scheduled to be decommissioned in 2028.
The FA-50M serves as both an advanced fighter pilot training aircraft and a light combat aircraft capable of carrying out air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.
The 18 FA-50M were procured at a cost of nearly RM4bil under the 12th Malaysia Plan.
Mohamed Khaled said preparations for the aircraft’s operation had already begun, including the deployment of personnel, pilots, engineering and operational teams.
Of the 209 personnel required for the squadron, 127 positions had been filled, with the remaining vacancies to be filled in stages alongside the delivery of the aircraft.
He described the acquisition as a historic development, noting that the FA-50M featured improved capabilities and more advanced equipment compared with aircraft previously operated by the country.
The aircraft will operate under No. 15 Squadron, whose commanding officer, Mejar Mohd Jamil Awang, later briefed Mohamed Khaled.
On whether Malaysia would acquire additional fighter aircraft, the minister said the government would consider a second batch after evaluating the performance and operational suitability of the aircraft.
“We will assess the aircraft, carry out testing and determine whether further enhancements are needed. If we are satisfied, we will certainly have a second batch.
“We have a need for additional aircraft of this type, and procurement will be undertaken.
“However, whether we acquire the same model or another type will be determined by the RMAF,” he said.
On efforts to strengthen security in Sabah, particularly along the east coast, Mohamed Khaled said measures to enhance the country’s defence capabilities formed part of a broader national security strategy.
He said every country had the right to strengthen its own defence capabilities, adding that Malaysia would continue doing so to safeguard its sovereignty and security.
